Bora Bora spells romance like few other places on Earth. But beyond the overwater bungalows visible in every travel brochure lies a realm of secluded havens perfect for a honeymoon where it’s just you, your loved one, and turquoise waters stretching to the horizon. Ditch the crowds and discover these intimately private corners of paradise.
Finding Your Private Paradise: Beyond the Bungalow
Let’s be honest, while those iconic overwater bungalows are stunning, they’re also, well, popular. If you crave true seclusion, consider stepping outside the readily advertised and exploring these hidden gems:
Motu Tapu: Your Own Private Island for a Day
Imagine escaping to your very own private island for the day. Motu Tapu, once the exclusive retreat of Queen Pomare IV, is now available for private rentals. Several companies, like Viator, offer full-day excursions that include transportation, a catered lunch (think fresh, grilled seafood), snorkeling gear, and, most importantly, complete privacy. You can sunbathe on the pristine white sand, explore the coral reefs, or simply relax in your own personal Eden.
Cost: Expect to pay upwards of $2,000 USD for a full-day private rental, prices vary depending on the vendor and inclusions.
Getting There: Boat transfers from your hotel are typically included in the rental package.
What to Expect: Complete seclusion, stunning views of Mount Otemanu, exceptional snorkeling, and memories that will last a lifetime. In some cases, you can even arrange for a traditional Polynesian wedding ceremony on the motu.
Insider Tip: Book well in advance, especially during peak season. Discuss your specific needs and preferences with the tour operator to customize your experience, such as dietary restrictions or special requests for activities.
Private Beach Picnics: A Culinary Escape
Forget crowded restaurant terraces! Bora Bora offers a multitude of secluded beaches perfect for a romantic picnic. Many resorts will happily arrange a private picnic for you, complete with gourmet sandwiches, fresh fruit, champagne, and, of course, stunning views. Alternatively, you could pack your own basket with local delicacies from Vaitape, the main town on Bora Bora.
Where to Find Secluded Beaches: Explore the eastern side of the island, particularly around Matira Point (though this area can get busy during peak hours; walk further down the beach for more privacy). Also consider asking your hotel concierge for recommendations on lesser-known beaches accessible by boat.
DIY Tip: Visit the local market in Vaitape to purchase fresh baguettes, cheeses, fruits, and local specialties like poisson cru (raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime juice). Don’t forget a bottle of chilled rosé!
Resort Option Example: The Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, known for its impeccable service, can prepare a luxurious picnic basket and arrange transportation to a secluded beach for you.
Cost: A resort-arranged picnic typically costs between $200 and $500 USD, depending on the inclusions. A DIY picnic can be significantly cheaper, costing around $50 – $100 USD.
Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort: An Oasis of Exclusivity
While not entirely secluded, The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort offers overwater villas that are exceptionally private and luxurious. Splurge on one of the villas located at the furthest point of the motu (small island) for maximum peace and quiet. These villas boast private plunge pools, expansive decks, and direct access to the lagoon. The resort also offers bespoke experiences, such as private sunset cruises and romantic dinners on the beach.
Why St. Regis: The St. Regis is renowned for its exceptional service and attention to detail. Each villa comes with a dedicated butler who can cater to your every need, from arranging romantic turndowns to organizing private excursions.
Villa Recommendation: Look for the Overwater Royal Otemanu 2-Bedroom Villa with Pool for ultimate privacy and stunning views.
Cost: Expect to pay $1,500 – $5,000+ USD per night, depending on the villa type and season.
Activities: Besides the private pool and lagoon access, indulge in couples’ spa treatments at the Miri Miri Spa by Clarins, renowned for its Polynesian-inspired therapies.
Dining: For a truly romantic dining experience, book a private dinner on the beach under the stars, catered by one of the resort’s acclaimed chefs.
Helicopter Tour & Secluded Motu Landing
For an unforgettable honeymoon experience, consider a helicopter tour of Bora Bora followed by a secluded landing on a remote motu. Several companies, such as Google Travel and Viator, offer customized tours that include breathtaking aerial views of the island, its turquoise lagoons, and surrounding volcanic peaks. The highlight of the tour is a landing on a deserted motu, where you can enjoy a champagne toast and stunning views in complete privacy.
What to Expect: Breathtaking aerial views of Bora Bora, a secluded landing on a pristine motu, a champagne toast, and unparalleled photo opportunities.
Cost: Helicopter tours with a motu landing typically cost between $1,000 and $3,000 USD per couple. The price depends on the duration of the flight and the inclusions.
Duration: Flight times average from 20 minutes to 1 hour.
Things to Consider: Weather conditions can affect flight availability, so it’s best to book your tour early in your trip. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Practical Example: Some tours include a snorkeling stop on the motu after the champagne toast, allowing you to further explore the underwater world in complete privacy.
Secret Shores by Boat: Finding Hidden Beaches
Bora Bora’s lagoon is teeming with tiny, uninhabited islands and secluded beaches that are only accessible by boat. Rent a private boat with a captain for the day and ask them to take you to some of their favorite hidden spots. Many captains are locals who know the lagoon intimately and can share stories and insights about the island’s history and culture.
How to Arrange: Ask your hotel concierge for recommendations for reputable boat rental companies. Alternatively, you can find local boat operators at the Vaitape wharf.
What to Look For: Choose a boat with a comfortable shaded area and snorkeling gear. Be sure to discuss your desired itinerary with the captain in advance.
Cost: Private boat rentals typically cost between $500 and $1,500 USD per day, depending on the size of the boat and the inclusions.
Insider’s Tip: Pack a picnic lunch and plenty of sunscreen. Also, don’t forget to bring your underwater camera to capture the vibrant marine life.
Best Time to Go: Early morning or late afternoon are usually the least crowded times to explore the lagoon.
Exploring the Coral Gardens: An Underwater Escape
While the coral gardens themselves may not be entirely secluded, you can find more private spots by venturing further out into the lagoon with a private guide. Hire a local guide to take you to less frequented coral gardens, where you can snorkel or dive in peace and quiet. These hidden gems often boast vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish.
Benefits of a Private Guide: A private guide can take you to the best snorkeling spots, provide insights into the local marine life, and ensure your safety. They can also help you avoid the crowds.
What to Expect: Stunning coral reefs, colorful fish, clear turquoise waters, and a chance to escape the crowds.
Equipment Needed: Snorkeling gear is usually provided by the tour operator. If you’re planning to dive, be sure to bring your certification card.
Cost: A private snorkeling or diving tour typically costs between $200 and $500 USD per person.
Safety Tip: Always snorkel or dive with a buddy and be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to the currents and avoid touching the coral.
Romantic Sunset Cruise: A Voyage for Two
End your day in paradise with a romantic sunset cruise around Bora Bora. Several companies offer private sunset cruises that include champagne, appetizers, and breathtaking views of the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean. Some cruises even include a stop at a secluded motu for a private swim.
Cruise Inclusions: Expect champagne, appetizers (often including local delicacies), and stunning views of the sunset. Some cruises offer open bars and Polynesian entertainment.
What to Wear: Dress comfortably and bring a light jacket or sweater, as it can get chilly on the water after sunset.
Photo Opportunities: The sunset over Bora Bora is truly magical. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Cost: Private sunset cruises typically cost between $300 and $1,000 USD per couple.
Booking Tip: Book your cruise in advance, especially during peak season. Ask about the boat’s capacity and ensure that it is not overcrowded.
The best option is to find smaller tour operators offering private and customizable trips to avoid big crowds and to have a more romantic journey. Check TripAdvisor for reviews and rates.
Luxury Yacht Charter: Unforgettable Exclusivity
For the ultimate in privacy and luxury, consider chartering a private yacht for your honeymoon. With a yacht, you can explore the lagoon at your own pace, discover hidden coves, and enjoy unparalleled service and amenities. Many yachts come with a full crew, including a captain, chef, and stewardess.
Benefits of a Yacht Charter: Complete privacy, unparalleled service and amenities, the freedom to explore the lagoon at your own pace, and the ability to discover hidden coves and secluded beaches.
Yacht Amenities: Expect luxurious cabins, spacious decks, gourmet meals prepared by a private chef, water sports equipment, and a dedicated crew to cater to your every need.
Cost: Yacht charters typically cost between $5,000 and $50,000+ USD per week, depending on the size of the yacht and the inclusions.
Honeymoon Yacht: Think about smaller, intimate yachts for ultimate privacy. Borrow A Boat may provide some inspiration.
Itinerary Ideas: Spend your days swimming, snorkeling, diving, sunbathing, and exploring the lagoon. In the evenings, enjoy romantic dinners on deck under the stars.
Important Considerations: Book your yacht charter well in advance, especially during peak season. Work with a reputable yacht charter company to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Discuss your desired itinerary and preferences with the charter company in advance.
Creating Your Romantic Itinerary
The key to a truly secluded honeymoon in Bora Bora is careful planning and a willingness to venture off the beaten path. Here’s a sample itinerary to inspire you:
- Day 1: Arrive at your hotel and check into your overwater villa with a private plunge pool that is quite far away from the main building. Spend the afternoon relaxing and enjoying the views. In the evening, have a romantic dinner at the resort’s signature restaurant.
- Day 2: Take a helicopter tour of Bora Bora followed by a secluded landing on a remote motu for a champagne toast. Spend the afternoon snorkeling in the coral gardens.
- Day 3: Rent a private boat with a captain and explore the lagoon. Discover hidden beaches and secluded coves. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach. In the evening, go on a romantic sunset cruise.
- Day 4: Pamper yourselves with a couples’ spa treatment at Miri Miri Spa by Clarins at the St. Regis. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the pool. In the evening, have a private dinner on the beach under the stars.
- Day 5: Charter a private yacht and explore the lagoon at your own pace. Swim, snorkel, dive, and sunbathe. Enjoy gourmet meals prepared by a private chef.
- Day 6: Spend the day relaxing on Motu Tapu, your private island for the day.
- Day 7: Depart from Bora Bora, filled with memories of your unforgettable honeymoon.
FAQ Section
What is the best time of year to visit Bora Bora for a honeymoon?
The best time to visit Bora Bora is during the shoulder seasons, which are April-May and September-October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, the crowds are smaller, and the prices are lower.
How much does a honeymoon in Bora Bora typically cost?
A honeymoon in Bora Bora can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $50,000 USD or more, depending on your choice of accommodation, activities, and dining experiences.
What should I pack for a honeymoon in Bora Bora?
Pack light, comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, and a camera. If you plan to do any water sports, be sure to bring appropriate footwear.
What is the currency used in Bora Bora?
The currency used in Bora Bora is the CFP franc (XPF). Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Do I need to speak French in Bora Bora?
While French is the official language of French Polynesia, English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Do I need a visa to visit Bora Bora?
Citizens of most countries, including the United States, Canada, and the European Union, do not need a visa to visit Bora Bora for stays of up to 90 days.
References
Bora Bora Tourism Authority
Viator
St. Regis Bora Bora Resort
TripAdvisor
Borrow A Boat
Ready to trade the everyday for pure bliss? Your secluded honeymoon in Bora Bora awaits. Contact your travel agent today and start planning your unforgettable escape. Because truly, paradise is closer than you think… it’s just a flight away.
